In that fleeting moment where it seemed a compromise could be reached , one that might grant at least some degree of satisfaction to most sides , the council's attention once again drifted back to the defeated prince, who , however, seemed incapable of swallowing his pride, his features contorting with indignation at the mere thought of losing his most profitable possession.
"The mines belong to the Crown of Oizen by right!" Sorza spat out as if shouting could make the impossible possible. "And I'll see myself damned before yielding them to him."
Alpheo leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with disdain, a cold smile tugging at his lips."I had hoped," he said with quiet venom, "that the months you spent beneath my roof might have softened that arrogance. That you would see reason. But you remain unchanged. Very well. Then hear me clearly: you will yield them.
